India for conciliatory dialogue process to address situation

As Egypt plunged into uncertainty on Wednesday, New Delhi has called for a conciliatory dialogue process to address the delicate situation.

“India urges all political forces to abjure violence, exercise restraint, respect democratic principles and the rule of law and engage in a conciliatory dialogue to address the present situation,” a spokesperson of the external affairs ministry said on Thursday.

“India was amongst the first countries to welcome the January 25 revolution and the promise of genuine democracy in a large and important country like Egypt with which we have traditionally enjoyed close and friendly ties”, he added.

Speaking to HT, Navdeep Suri, India’s ambassador to the country, assured that measures are in place to ensure the safety of the Indians.

“We have placed wardens in each area where there are Indians. They are in constant touch with the embassy and at the mission we are monitoring the situation 24/7”, he said.

Meanwhile, for the 3000 Indians residing in that country it’s time to wait and watch.

Businessmen Suketu Mehta, who is in Cairo since 1984, is hoping for the best and wishes that there is no backlash from the Muslim Brotherhood.

“There are no safety issues now. We have to wait and see to know whatever is happening now is good for the country in the long run”, said Mehta whose family is in Egypt since 1924 and whose father witnessed the revolution in 1952.

“But Egypt needs political stability, which is an imperative for economic growth”, he added over the phone.

“There is jubilation on the streets. But so far it’s all peaceful and people are rejoicing Morsi’s ouster”, adds R Kalidas, who’s with the Indian business firm Samnar group in Port Said, where around 200 Indians reside.